Pin A whimsical dessert board inspired by the enchanting sounds of the night, featuring an assortment of sweets and treats creatively arranged to resemble a wise owl. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or themed events.
This dessert board has always been a hit at our family events. Everyone loves how the owl theme brings a touch of whimsy to the table.
Ingredients
- Base & Structure: 12 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), 6 large chocolate chip cookies, 8 graham crackers, 1 cup chocolate wafer cookies
- Owl Features: 2 large round sugar cookies (for owl eyes), 6 white chocolate buttons or candy melts (for eye highlights), 2 brown M&Ms or chocolate candies (for pupils), 1 dried apricot or orange jelly bean (for beak)
- Sweet Accents: 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels (for wings), ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries, ½ cup mixed nuts (optional, for tree branch effect), ½ cup banana chips, ½ cup fresh blueberries
- Dipping & Garnishes: ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread, ½ cup whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (for feather detail)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large platter or wooden board, arrange the chocolate chip cookies in a semi-circle at the base to create the owls body.
- Step 2:
- Place the two large round sugar cookies at the top center for the owls eyes. Add white chocolate buttons on top for eye highlights, and place brown M&Ms or chocolate candies in the center as pupils.
- Step 3:
- Position the dried apricot or orange jelly bean between and just below the eyes to form the beak.
- Step 4:
- Use chocolate-covered pretzels on either side of the body to create the wings.
- Step 5:
- Arrange chocolate sandwich cookies and wafers around the body to mimic feathers.
- Step 6:
- Add banana chips, dried cranberries, and blueberries around the edges for color and texture.
- Step 7:
- Place mixed nuts and graham crackers along the bottom to resemble a tree branch.
- Step 8:
- Fill small bowls with chocolate hazelnut spread and whipped cream/yogurt for dipping, and place them at the sides of the board.
- Step 9:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the feathers for added detail.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to pick and dip as desired.
Pin This dessert board brings everyone together, creating memories around a fun and delicious centerpiece at celebrations.
Notes
Pairs well with hot chocolate or milky tea. Add edible eyes instead of assembling with candies for a fun twist.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter. Small bowls for dips. Spatula or spoon (for dips). Food-safe tweezers (optional, for precise placement).
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, soy, nuts (if using), eggs (in some cookies). May contain traces of peanuts or tree nuts. Double-check all ingredient labels if serving those with allergies.
Pin With its charming design and delightful flavors, this owl-themed dessert board is sure to impress and satisfy all your guests.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I assemble the owl eyes on the board?
Place two large round sugar cookies at the top center to form eyes, then top with white chocolate buttons for highlights and brown candies as pupils.
- → Can I substitute nuts in this dessert display?
Yes, for nut allergies, replace nuts with extra dried fruits or additional berries to maintain texture and flavor.
- → What treats create the owl's feathers?
Chocolate sandwich cookies, wafers, and banana chips arranged around the body mimic feather textures, enhanced by shredded coconut for detail.
- → Are there any tools recommended for assembly?
A large serving board, small bowls for the dips, and optional food-safe tweezers help position smaller components precisely.
- → How should the dipping elements be served?
Serve chocolate hazelnut spread and whipped cream or vanilla yogurt in small bowls placed beside the board for easy dipping.
- → Can different cookies be used for the owl features?
Absolutely! Experiment with oatmeal or peanut butter cookies to customize the owl’s appearance and flavor profile.